Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous), operated by the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate in Kochi, Kerala, has secured the second position among India’s top social work colleges, according to the India Today Best Colleges 2025 rankings released on 11 July.
Leading the list is Mumbai’s Tata Institute of Social Sciences, which has retained its top position. The rankings aim to guide students seeking admission into Master of Social Work (MSW) programmes across the country.
Notably, 11 out of the 25 ranked institutions are managed by Christian organisations. These colleges have been recognised for their investment in experienced faculty, strong academic infrastructure, NGO partnerships, and practical fieldwork opportunities. The ranking methodology considered factors such as faculty expertise, internship access, hands-on training, and student support services.
The top five institutions have held the same ranks as last year. Among them is Mumbai’s College of Social Work (Autonomous), Nirmala Niketan, operated by the Daughters of the Heart of Mary, which maintained its fifth-place position.
Several Christian institutions showed notable progress in this year’s rankings. The Bhopal School of Social Sciences, managed by the local Catholic archdiocese, rose three places to 21st. Similarly, Sacred Heart College in Tirupattur, Tamil Nadu, run by the Salesians of Don Bosco, climbed to 22nd.
Other key movements include:
- Loyola College, Chennai (Jesuit-managed): ranked 9th, down from 7th.
- Stella Maris College, Chennai (Franciscan Missionaries of Mary): moved up from 18th to 16th.
- St Aloysius College, Mangaluru (Jesuit-managed): improved to 18th from 20th.
- School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, Mangaluru (Daughters of the Heart of Mary): rose one spot to 12th.
However, Christ University, Bengaluru (under the Carmelites), saw a slight drop, falling from 6th to 7th.
Other top-ranked Christian institutions include:
- Madras Christian College, Chennai: ranked 8th.
- Loyola College of Social Sciences, Thiruvananthapuram (Jesuit-managed): placed 10th.
The rankings highlight the long-standing contribution of Christian institutions to the field of social work education in India. Their focus on service, academic excellence, and community engagement continues to prepare students for impactful careers.
Adapted from reporting by Matters India.
